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Ultrastructural observations in port wine stains.
B V Schneider1, Y Mitsuhashi, U W Schnyder
1University Hospital of Zurich, Department of Dermatology, Switzerland.
Archives of Dermatological Research
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Structural changes in blood vessel walls and surrounding tissue contribute to port wine stain (PWS) development. These vascular and connective tissue alterations explain the progressive vessel dilation seen in PWS.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Vascular Biology
- Histopathology
Background:
- The etiology of progressive vascular dilatation in port wine stains (PWS) is not fully understood.
- PWS are characterized by abnormal blood vessels in the skin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the histological and ultrastructural changes in lesional and normal skin of patients with port wine stains.
- To determine the relationship between structural alterations and vascular dilatation in PWS.
Main Methods:
- Paired skin biopsy specimens from 12 patients with PWS and 8 age-matched controls were analyzed.
- Histological examination of semithin sections and ultrastructural analysis using electron microscopy were performed.
Main Results:
- Lesional skin showed ectatic vessels with thickened walls of postcapillary venules and altered connective tissue.
- Ultrastructural analysis revealed amorphous material deposits, increased basal laminae, and filamentous aggregates in vessel walls.
- Endothelial fenestrations and gaps were observed, suggesting compromised vascular integrity.
Conclusions:
- Structural changes in both vascular and intervascular connective tissue are linked to vessel dilatation in PWS.
- These findings, while consistent with increased basement membrane components, are interpreted as secondary phenomena.
- Endothelial stability and permeability alterations may play a role in PWS pathogenesis.